Child residence arrangements are often a primary concern for a parent who going through a divorce or paternity action. Child residence arrangements can be reached in various ways, including through litigation and mediation. At the Law Offices of Jodie Bassichis, P.A., we represent parents throughout the process of reaching workable child residence arrangements, which are in the best interests of the child(ren).

Would you like to speak with Jodie Bassichis about your child residence concerns? Please contact the Law Offices of Jodie Bassichis today to arrange your consultation.

Child residence contains two parts, which are physical residence and legal residence. Physical residence is where the child(ren) lives. Legal residence refers designations as to schooling, etc. Shared Parental Responsibility allows for, and encourages, both parents to make important decisions in a child’s life, such as education, religion, health care and even after-school activities. Generally, parents are given Shared Parental Responsibility unless it is determined to not be in the best interests of the minor child(ren). Timesharing can be equal, rotating, or can specifically include weekends, holidays, summer vacations and other times that are pre-arranged.

Attorney Jodie Bassichis is a former certified mediator by the Florida Supreme Court. Mediation can provide each party with an amicable environment in which to agree on child residence arrangements. Mediation can be particularly useful in decisions that directly impact the children. When an arrangement is made through mediation, parents are often able to continue communicating in a polite manner, which is always in the best interests of children during this time.

When determining child residence and timesharing arrangements, the court considers the best interests of the children as the most important factor.  Additionally, the courts encourage each parent to have a meaningful and healthy relationship with their children and foster a meaningful and healthy relationship with the other parent and the children.